Rising star Amen Thompson is the Western Conference’s Defensive Player of the Month for January, the NBA announced. Houston went 11-4 on the month.

Amen Thompson #1 of the Houston Rockets celebrates after scoring the game winning basket against the Boston Celtics during the second half at T

There's a legitimate argument for Thompson to remain as the starter when Smith returns. The Rockets have found the same success with Thompson in the starting lineup, and he's been producing at a higher level. Based on his seamless fit in the first five, head coach Ime Udoka will have a tough decision to make soon.

Houston's Amen Thompson gained significant hype over the past several weeks, but despite otherwise quality play during the Rockets' losing streak, he is having some unflattering moments.